Ricko and his fellow Black Rhinoceros friends have been listed as "critically endangered" since 1977 and unfortunately they continue to face threats from poachers who are after their horns. It has been difficult over the years to keep their numbers up, and with your support, you can help Ricko and his friends to maintain their ranks.

Although the trip to Alabama has been very exciting for Ricko, and his own pad with Mohawk SmartStrand carpet is very alluring, the biggest goal in coming to the Birmingham Zoo for the Rhino Challenge is to help raise awareness that Black Rhinoceros are an endangered species.

Mohawk and DuPont have teamed up with the International Rhino Foundation. The IRF has been using conservation and research to help save the all species of rhinoceros in both Africa and Asia since 1989. You can help by buying a t-shirt or stuffed rhino. Part of the proceeds will go to the IRF and part of it will stay right here at the Birmingham Zoo.